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Salmonella is a bacteria, of which there are over 2,000 different strains. Once a person consumes this bacteria, he develops an infection known as gastroenteritis. This bacterium is also known to enter the bloodstream through the intestines after eating something that has been infected.

Origin of Name

Salmonella was named after its discoverer, an American veterinary pathologist by the name of Daniel Elmer Salmon.

Causes

Salmonella is spread by coming into contact with animal feces that contain the bacteria. The salmonella bacteria can be found in the foods that you eat, including meat, poultry, milk, eggs and vegetables. The bacteria will not die unless you cook the foods thoroughly.

Numbers

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 40,000 diagnosed cases of Salmonella poisoning every year in the United States.

Symptoms

Some victims of salmonella poisoning may experience cramps, diarrhea, fever, chills and nausea. In severe cases, the diarrhea can be so bad that a person has to go to the hospital.

Duration and Treatment

Symptoms of salmonella poisoning last for 3 to 7 days. Patients who experience severe symptoms may be treated with antibiotics.

Related Disease

References

About the Author

Ellie Norton began writing in 2006 and her articles have appeared on Ehow.com, Examiner.com and Associated Content. She took many English and creative writing classes in college. Norton holds a Bachelor of Arts in history from the University of Central Florida and a Juris Doctorate from The University of Iowa.